Seven tapas spots to try in Greater Boston

It’s hard to resist the allure of tapas. Small plates of cheeses, meats, vegetables, and fried food-- what’s not to love? Luckily, Boston knows how to do tapas. From new and trendy to classic and cozy, this cuisine has successfully taken off in the area. Have folks visiting from out of town? Looking for a date night spot? Or are you just looking for a local tapas in your area? Here is a round up of seven tapas spots in seven different neighborhoods around Boston.

Pictured clockwise from left is Toro, Tasca, Tres Gatos, and Tapeo.
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Yoon S. Byun / Globe Staff

Neighborhood: Union Square, Somerville

Avocado martini? Tres Leches with homemade meringue sauce? Yes please. Casa B. opened in Union Square recently and has already been attracting the crowds. The cause? It could be the complimentary plantains with asparagus dip or the pitcher of sangria — it’s delicious and worth the price

Ideal for: Dining for two. Request bar seating on the lower level — the stools are cushiony and comfortable, and you can watch the staff assemble the desserts (you will drool).

The intimate, old world decor of Dali only adds to the restaurant’s authentic feel. Dali features traditional plates, like patatas bravas, and has an expansive menu. If you’re looking for a place for large groups or for families, Dali is right down your alley.

Few restaurants are older than two years in Kendall Square, and Kika Tapas is one of them. Owned by the same forces behind Tapeo and Solea in Waltham, the space is new and beautiful, decorated with vibrant shades of red.

Ideal for: Centered in Kendall Square, Kika is a great option for a meal with collegaues.

The location makes this spot worth a visit. It’s right on Newbury Street, but that means it’s pricier — the restaurant has a set minimum price of $15 per person, which is an unusual practice, but isn’t a lot to pay for tapas.

Tapas can be expensive, but this Brighton gem makes them more affordable. Before you go to the restaurant, sign up for the e-mails — there are often great prix fixe “stimulus” menus offered every month. Also, a good indication for the quality of a tapas joint is the sangria it offers. Tasca has an eclectic sangrias menu that rotates based on the seasons.

This may be the best known tapas restaurant in Boston, and for good reason. Celebrity chef Ken Oringer is behind the menu, which offers everything from cauliflower to cured duck ham. This space, lined with brick walls, has been featured in magazines like Food and Wine.

Ideal for: Classic and trendy dining. If you’re trying to impress, this is your spot.

Looking to mix your tapas experience with some music, reading, or special events? Head to Tres Gatos. The menu isn’t extensive, but the ambiance and entertainment makes up for it. Plus, with four different choices of queso, it offers selection where it counts.